Conversations with a Couponer: Kathy Spencer on How to Shop For Free

Kathy Spencer runs the website HowToShopForFree.net because she really knows how to shop for free. She estimates that she saves around $60,000 per year by using coupons. On a trip with Good Morning America, Kathy spent one cent at Shaw's!

Kathy's $267.23 balance before coupons

Kathy's $0.01 balance after using coupons

We at Saverr met Kathy recently at the Nixi Baby Expo and knew we needed to learn all we could from her. We attended her couponing class and found it so interesting that we wanted to share some helpful tips with you.

Tip 1: Challenge yourself every time you shop

What got you interested in couponing?
My mom was a couponer and it's something I have been doing my entire life. I believe saving money is part of my DNA.

How did you become so good at couponing?
I continually challenge myself to spend less and less. I would document my spending each week and continually challenge myself to go lower and lower...I average a $4.00 grocery bill every week. The key is stockpiling items.

Tip 2: The best coupons are found at the dentist, vet, and pediatrician

Where do you find the best coupons?

They are all over the waiting room and in the office. If you don't see them, just ask. The secretaries always have a bunch as well as free samples.I was just at the dentist and scored a ton of great toothpaste and toothbrush coupons that will make them work out free. The vet has high value pet food coupons and some try me free coupons. The pediatrician always has high value formula coupons, diaper coupons, baby water, and vitamins etc. Coupons are everywhere you just have to train your eye to spot them

Tip 3: There is a right way and wrong way to coupon

What are some things that people should know when they start couponing?
People need to realize there is a right way and a wrong way to use coupons. You need to know the difference and follow the rules. I look at it like a match up game. Match the deal to the coupon and get it free. How To Shop For Free is a "How To" website and book. It's not rocket science, anyone can do what I do if they put their ming to it. Just challenge yourself and make it happen.

With the holidays right around the corner, what should people do to save money this time of the year?
People need to stop over spending. If you can't afford to pay your mortgage, then you shouldn't be buying your kids the latest electronics. You need to make a list and have a budget. Look for ways to get things for free. You would be surprised how much free stuff you could get if you set your mind to it. Even a beginner can stuff a stocking with no money. There are plenty of ways to get gifts for free as well. 90% of my holiday gifts for friends and family I have gotten this year were free. Shhh!!! Don't tell them! These items include tablets, clothing, toys, and name brand items too. There is always a bargain to be had, you just have to look for it and make it happen. 

Tip 4: Karma will reward you

The last question we asked Kathy was if there was anything else she thought people should know about using coupons. Her answer was so simple, yet so generous.

"People need to know is something is free and they don't need it, that they should get it anyways. In this economy there are so many people in need that if you can grab a few extra items to help someone and it won't cost you a penny than do it. Karma will reward you"

Thank you to Kathy for speaking to us. She clearly really know about saving money for her family, and can definitely help you as well. If you are interested in learning more about Kathy, make sure to check out her Facebook page and her Twitter account.

Also, make sure to save money the next time you head to the grocery store you download Saverr.